Tuam Take Connacht Women's Development Title

The Tuam Women's team, which was only formed two seasons ago, defeated a game UCG side in the recent final of the Connacht Women's Development League.

The final was hosted at Tuam RFC due to a forced venue change. The weather, cold and dry, made for an entertaining spectacle of rugby with both teams showing strong forward mobility and ferocity to win the ball.

Steve Cunningham, President of the Connacht Branch, was on hand to present the trophy to the victorious Tuam ladies, and commented: "We are grateful to Tuam for hosting the game at this great new floodlit facility.

"I'd like to compliment both teams on the strong performance and Wendy (Hickey) for her work in developing the Women'ss game. The final score, 12-5, just shows just how competitive these two clubs are."

Sean Carter, Chairman of Tuam RFC, was delighted with his club's performance. He said: "This was a very satisfying win for our club, as our Women's team was only formed two seasons ago.

"They have put in so much effort and it's a great credit to their determination. It's an example to us all."

Martin Gallagher, the Connacht Branch's Domestic Rugby Manager, was also on hand to support the game.

"A great evening, two team that have worked immensely hard the past few seasons to improve their rugby and support systems," he said.

"The key now is to build a few other Women's teams and I would encourage the Connacht clubs to embrace the Women's games and work with Wendy Hickey, our WRDO, to have a Women's team in their club.

"I'd like to mention and pay tribute to Wendy Hickey, our Women's Development Officer, for all her efforts in getting the Women's Development League up and running, and moving forward."

Wendy herself was delighted with the quality of rugby both teams played on the night.

"I would like to congratulate both teams on a well fought out final. The standard of rugby improved dramatically throughout the season, and credit to both players and coaches for setting the bar high," she said.

"I would also like to thank Tuam RFC for graciously offering their fantastic facilities to host the match at such short notice.

"Paul Cosgrove, John Carr and Tuam RFC have been extremely accommodating of the Women's game over the whole season, and their support is greatly appreciated!"

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